Our Expertise
Publicans Problem, Risks & Solution
The Problem
Independent publicans operating in London and the south east of England are facing an unexpected spate of legal claims being systematically launched against them by a group of persons seeking financial damages based on allegations of discrimination.
Independent publicans have limited support systems to adequately deal with these claims.
The Risks
- Concede the claims irrespective of merit and negotiate a settlement;
- Pay damages and claimants legal costs
- Fund own legal Defence including appeals as necessary
- Business disruption and damaged cash flow
- Anxiety, physical and mental health problems
- Damaged personal and business relationships
- Possible future malicious claims
- Personal and/or business insolvencies
The Solution
At the request of several independent publicans, Mercantile Barristers has created the Independent Publicans’ Support Unit (“IPSU”) to assist the publicans with working more closely together not just to address the present claims but also, to ensure a greater degree of preparedness for self-evident future risks.
The IPSU is a team of specialist lawyers led by Samuel Okoronkwo, our Head of Chambers, that are focussed on protecting, supporting and advancing the interests of independent publicans operating in greater London and progressively growing to include those operating across England and Wales.
Independent publicans, who are either sole traders with one or two sites or small and medium size enterprises with a handful of sites, are faced with unique legal and commercial challenges that are distinct from those experienced by the large brewers and large pub cos with multiple sites.
IPSU aims to be the first and most valuable point of contact for all independent publicans seeking assistance for challenges that they face on a day to day basis covering
- Legal
- Licensing; and
- Commercial
Issues affecting their establishment of a pub, their successful operation of a pub and where necessary them having to close a pub that has come to the end of its life cycle.
How Our Process Works
Instructing our direct access barristers is the cost effective alternative to the traditional route of engaging a solicitor first. The process is just as straightforward. Here’s how the process works:
You Have a Legal Problem?
We Have the Barrister for You.
Initial Consultation
In the consultation the barrister will assess your legal position, devise a legal strategy, and give you appropriate advice on the necessary next steps to achieve your objective.
